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May 16.2026
3 Minutes Read

Discover the Vibrant Taste of North Carolina at Food Festivals

Charming night street scene in North Carolina small town.

Celebrating North Carolina's Culinary Richness

This weekend, from May 15 to 17, enthusiasts of local flavors will gather at the NC State Fairgrounds to enjoy the Got to Be NC Festival, a celebration designed to highlight everything North Carolina has to offer. While there are many attractions to explore, it’s the array of food and drinks that truly draws the crowd. Expect delicious offerings like the Carolina Pig Jig on Saturday, complemented by a North Carolina Craft Beer Garden and Craft Cocktail Garden, making it an event you won’t want to miss!

What's Cooking at The Got to Be NC Festival?

Marked on calendars as a miniature version of the NC State Fair, this festival focuses on local culinary delights. The festival serves as a melting pot for North Carolina’s food culture, where visitors can explore everything from barbecue to craft beverages, emphasizing the state's agricultural diversity and culinary arts. Also, don't forget to mark October 15-25 for the NC State Fair, which promises even more in terms of creative deep-fried specialties and festive rides!

New Offerings in the Triangle Community

According to the latest updates from Wake County, Outback Steakhouse is gearing up to open its eighth Triangle location by summer at 680 Richland Grove Avenue in the Grove 98 complex, a spot that also houses a Wegmans. This expansion reflects the growing dining options available to local residents. Meanwhile, Cabo Mexican Cuisine in Brier Creek has begun soft-opening, serving a diverse menu inspired by the coastal charm of Cabo San Lucas.

A Spot of Breakfast and Remembrance

Fuquay-Varina recently welcomed the Early Bird Cafe, owned by Tracy Gower, who aims to provide a convenient breakfast option in the area. While food news floods the local scene, we also pause to remember Jerry Hart, the beloved founder of Ole Time Barbecue, and Katherine Morgan's mother, Sara Jane Morris, whose impact will resonate deeply in the hearts of those who knew them.

Exciting Additions in the Dessert Scene

Chapel Hill is welcoming Yodith’s Cakery, a custom dessert shop now open in Timberline Shopping Center. As noted by local chef Tim Rittenhouse, the shop’s offerings promise to be as delightful as its aesthetic, focusing on beautifully crafted pastries perfect for any celebratory occasion.

Keeping Up with Food Truck Culture

Food trucks remain a popular way to enjoy local delicacies, like those offered at the Durham Central Park Food Truck Rodeo. This spring and into the fall, families can come together to enjoy an array of cuisines from over 30 food trucks, set against the backdrop of inflatables and fun activities.

Join the Cultural Celebration at Common Roots Festival

Additionally, this Saturday marks the fifth annual Common Roots Festival in celebration of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, organized by North Carolina Asian Americans Together (NCAAT). Expected to draw a large crowd, this free festival will foster community and display the rich cultural heritage of Asian-Americans in the region.

Impactful Events Worth Attending

As food festivals continue to weave their way through North Carolina's social fabric, they provide more than just culinary enjoyment; they cultivate community bonds, celebrate heritage, and spotlight local businesses. Whether through food, art, or shared experiences, these events reflect the essence of northern Carolinian culture and hospitality.

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